OUR HISTORY

Founded in April 2009 and formed one month later by multiple businesses and residents in the 51st Street corridor, 51st Street Business Association is a non-profit 501 c3 organization, working to make a difference in a distressed urban community. Incorporation of the organization was completed in 2011.

The purpose of 51st Street Business Association is to create programs, educate, inspire, empower, network and support the community, current and aspiring small business owners within the Grand Boulevard, Washington Park and surrounding communities. The organization pilots economic, cultural and community development projects utilizing city, state, federal, philanthropic and community resources.

The Association focuses on business development, recruitment, consultation, cultural program development and creation, performance venue support and development, business marketing, organizing strategies, networking and community outreach activities and strategies. 

OUR MISSION:

​a.) assist in rehabbing the cultural and historical development of a distressed business and community area
b.) employ government resources for economic development
c.) produce a viable "sense of community" for change.

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT:

Since 2009, 51st Street Business Assocation has served as a strategic partner and resource to Chicago's Bronzeville, Washington Park, and Grand Boulevard neighborhoods located on the city's South Side--helping small businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits and residents move the neighborhood forward into the future while preserving its historical cultural past. Let us do the legwork, remove the hassles and aid your path to success.

"Because when you benefit, the community benefits and we all do."

---Sandra Bivens, Executive Director